What is CF

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is the most prevalent chronic genetic disease. CF primarily affects the lungs and digestive system and makes a child more vulnerable to repeated lung infections. A defective gene causes the body to produce an abnormally thick, sticky mucus that clogs the lungs and leads to life-threatening lung infections. These thick secretions also obstruct the pancreas, preventing digestive enzymes from reaching the intestines to help break down and absorb food.

Cells in the epithelium, which line the passages in bodily organs and protect tissues are affected by CF, and the thick, sticky mucus clogs many passages.

The lungs and pancreas are most affected, causing various breathing and digestive problems, and allows bacteria to remain and cause infection. Thick mucus can also be found in the pancreas - an organ that produces proteins called enzymes that support the body's digestion process. CF patients have trouble digesting food and absorbing its vitamins and nutrients.